Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is transmitted to people by mosquitoes. The virus causes high fever and severe joint pain that start suddenly. It can also cause headache, muscle pain and rash.CHIKV does not often result in death, but the symptoms can be disabling, and some people may get severe complications. There is no specific medication available to treat CHIKV and there is not a vaccine to prevent CHIKV. Avoiding mosquito bites is the key to avoid CHIKV.

DCHHS advises the public to use the '4Ds' to help reduce the chance of being bitten by a mosquito.

DEET All Day, Every Day: Whenever you’re outside, use insect repellants that contain DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

DRESS: Wear long, loose and light-colored clothing outside.

DRAIN: Remove all areas of standing water in and around your home.

DUSK & DAWN: Limit outdoor activities during dusk and dawn hours when mosquitoes are most active.

Number of individuals confirmed with CHIKV in Dallas County: 11*

* All confirmed cases have been imported. There are currently no reports of locally-acquired CHIKV in Dallas County. The numbers reflect information at the time of publishing and are subject to change. DCHHS will report additional numbers as they are received.

Although no local spread has yet to been reported in Texas, imported cases make local spread possible because the mosquitoes that can transmit the virus are found locally.